Register for counting and tracking items in a bag

ABSTRACT

A register for counting and tracking items in a bag comprises a manifest and an RFID reader. The RFID reader is used to query a plurality of RFID tags attached to items contained in the bag. The register creates reports counting and/or identifying changes to items contained in the bag while the bag is routed and/or items in the bag are processed for a customer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/634,369, filed on Feb. 27, 2015, which application is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/583,006, filed on Dec. 24, 2014,entitled “REGISTER FOR COUNTING AND TRACKING ITEMS IN A BAG,” whichapplication claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/056,247, filed on Sep. 26, 2014, the disclosures of which are herebyincorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure relates in general to registers. Registers are used torecord transactions. Some registers include machines and systems forascertaining a number of movements of various devices. Some registersare used to disclose the numerical extent or quantity of movement of amachine and where the device is separate and independent of the machinewhose movements are to be noted; also some machines, such ascash-registers, fare-registers, voting machines, and calculators, haveregistering or counting devices as elements and have in addition certainother features for a given purpose.

BRIEF SUMMARY

People often use bags (e.g., suitcases) to carry personal items andother items while traveling. In some embodiments, a register is used tocount and/or track items of a bag while the bag is routed and items ofthe bag are processed. For example, a customer selects a plurality ofitems to put in a suitcase. The customer then sends the suitcase to aprocessing facility where the plurality of items are logged (e.g., addedto a manifest of the suitcase and correlated to the customer) and RFIDtags are attached to the plurality of items. For example, an RFID tag(e.g., the size of a grain of rice), is sewn onto a shirt. The suitcasecomprises an RFID reader. The customer plans a first trip to a firstdestination (e.g., New York). The customer requests the suitcase be sentto New York for the customer to have the availability to use theplurality of items while the customer is at the first destination (e.g.,for the customer to wear the shirt while the customer is in New York).The suitcase is sent from the processing facility to New York. Thecustomer uses one or more of the plurality of items while the customeris at the first destination. The customer sends the suitcase from thefirst destination to the processing facility where one or more of theplurality of items are processed (e.g., the shirt is laundered, pressed,and returned to the suitcase). The customer plans a second trip to asecond destination (e.g., San Francisco). The customer requests thesuitcase be sent to San Francisco for the customer to have theavailability to use one or more of the plurality of items while thecustomer is at the second destination (e.g., for the customer to wearthe shirt while the customer is in San Francisco). The suitcase is sentfrom the processing facility to San Francisco. The customer uses one ormore of the plurality of items while the customer is at the seconddestination (e.g., wears the shirt and a pair of shoes). The customersends the suitcase from the second destination to the processingfacility where one or more of the plurality of items are processed(e.g., the shirt is laundered, pressed, and returned to the suitcase;and the shoes are shined and returned to the suitcase). Thus theprocessing facility saves the customer time and effort by cleaning androuting the suitcase for the customer (e.g., the customer does not unpack and re-pack the suitcase between trips, and the customer does nottake the suitcase through airport security). A register, comprising theRFID reader and the manifest, is used to count and tract the pluralityof items of the suitcase.

In some embodiments, a register for counting and tracking items in a bagis disclosed. The register comprises a manifest, an RFID reader, a firstreport, a second report, and a third report. The manifest comprises afirst identification (ID) of a first radio-frequency identification(RFID) tag, wherein the first ID is correlated to an account of acustomer, and the first RFID tag is attached to a first item ofclothing; and a second ID of a second radio-frequency identification(RFID) tag, wherein the second ID is correlated to the account of thecustomer, and the second RFID tag is attached to a second item ofclothing. The RFID reader is attached to the bag and configured to querythe first RFID tag for the first ID; and query the second RFID tag forthe second ID. The first report is generated after the bag is sent to afirst destination. The first report is generated by identifying a firstrecord, wherein the first comprises the first ID and the second ID fromthe RFID reader querying the first RFID tag and the second RFID tag; andcomparing the first record to the manifest. The second report isgenerated after the first report. The second report is generated by:identifying a second record, wherein the second record comprises thefirst ID but not the second ID from the RFID reader querying the firstRFID tag but not the second RFID tag; and comparing the second record tothe manifest. The second report identifies the second item of clothingis missing from the bag based on the second ID missing from the secondreport. The third report is generated after the second report. The thirdreport is generated by: identifying a third record, wherein the thirdrecord comprises the first ID and the second ID from the RFID readerquerying the first RFID tag and the second RFID tag; and comparing thethird record to the manifest. In some embodiments, the registercomprises a modem for sending the manifest and/or one or more reportsfrom the bag to a computing device (e.g., desktop and/or mobile device)via the Internet. In some embodiments, reports comprise images of itemsin the bag.

In some embodiments, a method for counting and tracking items in a bagusing a register is disclosed. A bag is received from a customer, thebag comprising a first item of clothing and a second item of clothing. Afirst RFID tag is attached to the first item of clothing, the first RFIDtag having a first ID that is unique to the first RFID tag. A secondRFID tag is attached to the second item of clothing, the second RFID taghaving a second ID that is unique to the second RFID tag. The first IDis correlated with an account of the customer. The second ID iscorrelated with the account of the customer. A manifest is created forthe bag, wherein: the manifest comprises the first ID; the manifestcomprises the second ID; and the manifest is correlated to the accountof the customer. The bag is sent to a first destination. A first recordof the bag is generated using an RFID reader attached to the bag,wherein the first record is generated by the RFID reader querying thefirst RFID tag and the second RFID tag. A first report is generated bycomparing the first record to the manifest. The first report istransmitted to a device of the customer. The first item is removed fromthe bag. The first item is cleaned and returned to the bag aftercleaning. A second record is generated after returning the first item tothe bag after cleaning, wherein the second record is generated by theRFID reader querying the first RFID tag and the second RFID tag. Thesecond record is compared to the manifest to generate a second report.In some embodiments, the second record is generated to verify items thatwere removed from the bag for cleaning were returned. The second reportis transmitted to the device of the customer.

In some embodiments, a method for counting and tracking items in a bagusing a register is disclosed. A bag received from a customer isidentified, the bag comprising a first item of clothing and a seconditem of clothing. A first RFID tag is identified, wherein the first RFIDtag is attached to the first item of clothing, the first RFID tag havinga first ID that is unique to the first RFID tag. A second RFID tag isidentified, wherein the second RFID tag is attached to the second itemof clothing, the second RFID tag having a second ID that is unique tothe second RFID tag. The first ID is correlated with an account of thecustomer. The second ID is correlated with the account of the customer.A manifest for the bag is created, wherein the manifest comprises thefirst ID; the manifest comprises the second ID; and the manifest iscorrelated to the account of the customer. A first record of the bag isgenerated using an RFID reader attached to the bag, wherein the firstrecord is generated by the RFID reader querying the first RFID tag andthe second RFID tag. A first report is generated by comparing the firstrecord to the manifest. Instructions are provided to a cleaner forcleaning the first item of clothing. A second record is generated afterthe first item is returned to the bag after cleaning, wherein the secondrecord is generated by the RFID reader querying the first RFID tag andthe second RFID tag. The second record is compared to the manifest togenerate a second report. The second report is transmitted to a deviceof the customer.

Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples, whileindicating various embodiments, are intended for purposes ofillustration only and are not intended to necessarily limit the scope ofthe disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure is described in conjunction with the appendedfigures.

FIG. 1A depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a logistics systeminteracting with processing facilities, suitcases, customer devices, andservice providers.

FIG. 1B depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a logistics systeminteracting with different service providers.

FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a processingfacility.

FIG. 3A depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a system for storageand delivery of the suitcase from a storage facility.

FIG. 3B depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a system for storageand delivery of the suitcase in collaboration with service providers.

FIG. 3C depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a system for storageand delivery of the suitcase having multiple interfaces for differentusers.

FIGS. 4A and 4B depict simplified diagrams of embodiments of a suitcasefor delivery from a storage facility.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C depict simplified diagrams of embodiments of adynamic display used with the suitcase.

FIG. 6 depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a modem of thesuitcase.

FIG. 7A depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a tamper lock of thesuitcase.

FIG. 7B depicts a block diagram of another embodiment of the tamper lockof the suitcase.

FIG. 8 depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a register of thesuitcase.

FIG. 9A depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a real-time,inventory display system for the suitcase.

FIG. 9B depicts a block diagram of another embodiment of register of thesuitcase.

FIG. 10 depicts a simplified diagram of a customer interface formanaging shipping of one or more suitcases.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process forrouting a suitcase for delivery.

FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process forrouting a suitcase for delivery using multiple interfaces.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process forproviding a second suitcase to a customer when a first suitcase isunavailable.

FIG. 14 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process forunlocking a suitcase with a mobile device.

FIG. 15 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process fortracking items in a suitcase.

In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have thesame reference label. Further, various components of the same type maybe distinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a secondlabel that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the firstreference label is used in the specification, the description isapplicable to any one of the similar components having the same firstreference label irrespective of the second reference label.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The ensuing description provides preferred exemplary embodiment(s) only,and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configurationof the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the preferredexemplary embodiment(s) will provide those skilled in the art with anenabling description for implementing a preferred exemplary embodiment.It is understood that various changes may be made in the function andarrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope asset forth in the appended claims.

Embodiments are generally, and without limitation, related to devices,systems, and methods that allow one or more customers to travel with abenefit of one or more suitcases, personal item(s), and/or other luggageitems and content (generally referred to in this application asluggage), but without carrying the luggage and/or otherwise addressingsome or all of luggage handling requirements when travelling from onelocation to one or more other locations (e.g., traveling from a startlocation a destination). More specifically, but without limitation, acustomer provides a suitcase, the suitcase typically comprisingcontents; the suitcase is stored at a storage location, for example astorage facility (i.e., a location away from the start location); andafter the customer identifies, either directly or indirectly, adestination, the suitcase is sent to the destination. In someembodiments, the storage facility not a place where the customerregularly receives mail (e.g., the customer may regularly receive mailat a residence or business). The customer may identify the destinationbefore or during travel from the start location to the destination. Insome embodiments, the customer identifies the destination after thesuitcase is stored at the storage location and before the customerleaves the start location. In some embodiments, the customer identifiesthe destination explicitly or identifies the destination indirectly byidentifying a travel itinerary, service provider, reservation, and/orother indicator of travel and the like. The suitcase is sent (eitherdirectly or indirectly) from the storage location to the destination.The suitcase is returned to the storage location, to another location,or may be delivered to a subsequent destination. In some embodiments,suitcase contents are processed (e.g., cleaned, ironed, polished),replaced and/or replenished before the customer arrives at adestination. In some embodiments, processing, replacing, and/orreplenishing suitcase contents saves the customer time and/or providesthe customer with a diversity of contents, and/or provides more totalcontents over a duration of travel.

FIG. 1A depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a logistics systeminteracting with processing facilities, suitcases, customer devices, andservice providers. Logistic-system servers 104 are part of a logisticssystem 108. The logistics-system server 104 communicates through routers112, as part of the Internet 116, with customer devices 120, serviceproviders 124, processing facilities 128, and suitcases 132. Thelogistics system 108 coordinates delivery and/or processing of one ormore suitcases 132. The routers 112 transmit data (e.g., data packets)through the Internet 116 between the logistics-system server 104,customer devices 120, service providers 124, processing facilities 128,and/or suitcases 132. Though only one server shown for thelogistics-system server 104, it is to be understood that one or morelogistics-system servers 104 could be used. Similarly, throughout thisdescription, if one server is depicted and/or discussed, one or moreservers could be used.

The processing facility 128 receives the suitcase 132 and creates amanifest comprising items of a suitcase 132. In some embodiments, animage is taken of each item of a suitcase 132, and images are part ofthe manifest. The processing facility 128 correlates the manifest and/orthe suitcase 132 to an account of a customer. In some embodiments,processing facilities 128 are geographically spread to reduce shipmentcosts and/or facility costs. A customer uses a customer device 120(e.g., desktop, laptop, and/or mobile device such as a smart phone) torequest delivery of a suitcase 132, receive updates regarding thesuitcase 132, and/or to provide instructions regarding the suitcase 132(e.g., for shirts to be cleaned and/or mended). In some embodiments, acustomer device 120 is connected by a local area network (LAN) to theInternet 116 (e.g., a first customer device 120-1 connected to a firstLAN 136-1). In some embodiments, a customer device 120 is connected tothe Internet 116 by a cell tower 140 (e.g., an nth customer device 120-nconnected to a first cell tower 140-1).

Service providers 124 are used for reference (e.g., social media used bya customer to help determine customer likes), processing items of thesuitcase 132 (e.g., cleaning), and/or delivery of the suitcase 132(e.g., a courier service).

In some embodiments, the suitcase 132 communicates with thelogistics-system server 104 (e.g., through a modem). Thelogistics-system server 104 receives information from the suitcase 132(e.g., GPS data, inventory, etc.), and/or provides instructions to thesuitcase 132 (e.g., for the suitcase 132 to display a mailing label on ascreen or to unlock). In some embodiments, a suitcase 132 is connectedby a LAN 136 to the Internet 116 (e.g., a first suitcase 132-1 connectedto a second LAN 136-2). In some embodiments, a suitcase 132 is connectedto the Internet 116 by a cell tower 140 (e.g., an nth suitcase 132-nconnected to a second cell tower 140-2).

FIG. 1B depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a logistics-systemserver 104 interacting, over the Internet 116, with different serviceproviders 124. Examples of service providers 124 include a storagefacility 150, a dry cleaner 154, a hotel 158, a courier service 162, apackage-delivery service 166, an airline 170, and a social-media service174. In this embodiment, the logistics-system server 104 transmitsand/or receives data from a server of the storage facility 150, a serverof the dry cleaner 154, a server of the hotel 158, a server of thecourier service 162, a server of the package-delivery service 166, aserver of the airline 170, and/or a server of the social-media service174. In some embodiments, the logistics system 108 transits data and/orreceives data from a service provider 124 without going through a serverof the service provider (e.g., transmitting data to a service provider124 having a computing device [e.g., personal computer, tablet]connected to the Internet 116) because the service provider 124 does nothave a server and/or the server of the service provider 124 is bypassed(e.g., a mobile app is provided to the service provider 124).

FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a processing facility128. The processing facility 128 comprises a local area network (LAN)204 connected to the Internet 116 through an internet-service provider208. Connected to the LAN are one or more cameras 212, one or more RFIDscanners 216, one or more barcode scanners 220, one or moreprocessing-facility servers 224, one or more web-connected terminals228, and/or one or more mobile devices 232. The processing-facilityserver 224 is connected to an image storage 236 and an inventorydatabase 240. The processing facility further comprises storage space244 for suitcases 132, RFID tags 248, and sorting equipment 252.

A suitcase 132 is received at the processing facility 128. The camera212 is used to take pictures of items in the suitcase 132 to create amanifest for the suitcase 132. RFID tags 248 and/or barcodes are securedto items in the suitcase 132. The RFID scanner 216 and/or barcodescanner 220 are used to read the RFID tags 248 and/or barcodes. In someembodiments, RFID tags 248 are used instead of barcodes so that multipleRFID tags 248 can be read at once, speeding up an inventory process.Pictures of items of the suitcase 132 are stored in the image storage236. Manifests are stored in the inventory database 240. In someembodiments, the mobile device 232 is used to perform functions of thecamera(s) 212, RFID scanner(s) 216, and/or barcode scanner(s) 220. Insome embodiments, the processing facility 128 stores suitcases 132instead of a storage facility 150 operated by a third party (wherein theprocessing facility 128 and the logistics system 108 are operated by acommon entity). In some embodiments, sorting equipment 252 is used tosort suitcases 132 going to different locations and/or sorting items fordifferent suitcases 132 (e.g., sending and receiving items from multiplesuitcases 132 to and from the dry cleaner 154).

Referring next to FIG. 3A, a block diagram of an embodiment of a systemfor storage and delivery of the suitcase 132 from a storage facility isshown. In FIG. 3A, a logistics system 108, a customer device 120, astorage facility 150, a plurality of package-delivery services 166, andthe suitcase 132 are connected to each other via the Internet 116.

The logistics system 108 comprises a logistics engine 320, a customerinterface 324, and a logistics repository 328. The customer device 120interacts with the logistics system 108 through the customer interface324. The customer places personal items in the suitcase 132 and thesuitcase 132 is sent to the storage facility 150. The storage facility150 is a location different from the start location of the customer. Insome embodiments, the storage facility 150 is a storage facility.Through the customer interface 324, the customer is able to request thesuitcase 132 be delivered to a destination. In some embodiments thecustomer provides a sequence or partial sequence of destinations, anitinerary, a partial destination such as a city but not a specificlocation within the city, or other destination-related information. Insome embodiments the customer changes previously provideddestination-related information, and optionally is able to change allpreviously-provided destination-related information or only some; forexample, previously-provided destination-related information that cannotbe changed may appear grayed-out or is otherwise indicated to thecustomer. The logistics engine 320 communicates with the storagefacility 150 and one or more package-delivery services 166 to deliverthe suitcase 132 from the storage facility 150 to the destination.Information about routing and deliveries is stored in the logisticsrepository 328.

For example, a customer lives in Tucson, Ariz. and plans a first tripfrom Tucson to New York City, N.Y., arriving in New York on October 25.The start location for the trip is Tucson, and the destination for thefirst trip is New York City. The storage facility 150 is a storagefacility near Los Angeles, Calif. Before the trip (e.g., in January),the customer receives the suitcase 132 and packs the suitcase 132 withpersonal items (e.g., clothing and toiletries). The suitcase is thensent to the storage facility near Los Angeles (the storage facility 150)for storage (e.g., in January). In March, the customer decides to go onthe first trip from Tucson to New York City. The customer uses an app ona smart phone (an example of the customer device 120) to make a requestfor delivery of the suitcase 132 to New York City by October 25. Thecustomer provides a hotel and/or a hotel address in New York City. Thecustomer interface 324 receives the request for delivery of the suitcase132 to New York City. The customer interface 324 transfers the requestfor delivery of the suitcase 132 to New York City to the logisticsengine 320. The logistics engine 320 schedules with FedEx (an example ofa package-delivery service 166) pickup of the suitcase 132 from thestorage facility on October 20 for delivery to the hotel by the morningof October 25. The logistics engine 320 provides instruction to thestorage facility to prepare the suitcase 132 for pickup by FedEx onOctober 20, and, at that time, or optionally at a later time prior topick up, communicates label information, such as a label format andparcel number, to the suitcase 132, which displays properly formattedlabel information on the dynamic display 412. The logistics enginestores information about FedEx picking up the suitcase 132, the hotelinformation, and instructions to the storage facility in the logisticsrepository 328.

On October 20, FedEx picks up the suitcase 132 at the storage facilityand delivers the suitcase 132 to the hotel the morning of October 25.Because the dynamic display 412 displays the assigned FedEx parcelnumber in an appropriate FedEx-compatible format, FedEx personnel andsystems can handle the suitcase 132 as a standard FedEx package,including scanning the dynamic display 412 in the same manner and withthe same equipment that a FedEx label is scanned, updating FedEx'ssystems with information about a location and/or progress of thesuitcase 132 as the suitcase 132 is shipped. A service interfacecommunicates with FedEx systems application programming interfaces,receives updated information about the location and/or progress of thesuitcase 132 as updates are available, and in turn updates the logisticssystem 108, the logistics engine 320, the customer interface 324, and/orthe logistics repository 328.

On October 20, the logistics engine 320 notifies the customer interface324 of FedEx picking up the suitcase 132 and stores the notification inthe logistics repository 328. The customer can access information aboutFedEx picking up the suitcase 132 through the customer interface 324. Insome embodiments, the customer interface 324 pushes an alert to thecustomer device 120 (e.g., as a text message or to show up in anotification center of the smart phone) that the suitcase 132 was pickedup by FedEx on October 20. Similarly, the customer can receive a textthat the suitcase 132 arrived at the hotel on October 25. On the morningof October 25, the customer boards an airplane at Tucson and flies toNew York City. When the customer arrives at the hotel in New York City,a staff member at the hotel gives the customer the suitcase 132 when thecustomer checks-in at the hotel. In some embodiments, the hotel staffsends the suitcase 132 to the customer's room before the customer checksin (and the customer receives a text that the suitcase 132 is waiting inthe customer's room).

On October 15, the customer plans a second trip. The second trip is toSan Francisco on November 3. The customer, using the customer device120, provides information about the second trip to the customerinterface 324. When the customer is finished with the first trip to NewYork City, the customer sends the suitcase 132 back to the storagefacility (or in some embodiments, the customer leaves the suitcase inthe customer's room or at the front desk of the hotel in New York andthe logistics engine 320 instructs the hotel staff to set the suitcase132 for pick up by a package-delivery service 166 for delivery from NewYork to the storage facility). The logistics engine 320 schedulesclothes in the suitcase to be washed and pressed, and for shoes in thesuitcase 132 to be polished (and an alert sent to the customer when thesuitcase 132 is ready). The logistics engine 320 further schedules withUPS to deliver the suitcase 132 from the storage facility to a hotel inSan Francisco, so that the suitcase 132 is waiting for the customer whenthe customer arrives in San Francisco on November 3.

Referring to FIG. 3B, a block diagram of an embodiment of a system forstorage and delivery of the suitcase in collaboration with serviceproviders is shown. FIG. 3B is similar to FIG. 3A with the addition of acollaboration engine 340, a preference repository 344, and a pluralityof service providers 124. The collaboration engine 340 and thepreference repository 344 are part of the logistics system 108.

The collaboration engine 340 works with service providers 124 to providethe customer with assistance when traveling. Some examples of serviceproviders 124 include social media providers, weather websites, traveladvisory websites, hotels, and transportation providers (e.g., taxi,bus, and subways). For example, the collaboration engine 340 checks aweather report when the customer is to be in New York City andidentifies a more than 50% likelihood of rain. The collaboration engine340 identifies that an umbrella is not listed on an inventory list ofthe suitcase 132. The collaboration engine 340 notifies the customerthrough the customer interface 324, and the customer is given an optionto have an umbrella placed in the suitcase 132 while the suitcase is atthe storage facility. Or an umbrella is automatically placed in thesuitcase 132. Or the hotel staff at the New York Hotel are notified andthe hotel staff offer the customer an umbrella.

In some embodiments, the collaboration engine 340 links information fromthe logistics system 108 to social media accounts. For example, thecustomer could be notified that certain contacts from a LinkedIn accountmay also be in New York City during the first trip. The customer mayalso be given dress recommendations for events the customer is attendingin New York City. The inventory list could be shared with friends.Further, preferred accounts (e.g., frequent flyer accounts and preferredguest accounts for hotels) can be consolidated and preferred businessesused.

Referring next to FIG. 3C, a block diagram of an embodiment of a systemfor storage and delivery of the suitcase having multiple interfaces fordifferent users is shown. In FIG. 3C, the logistics system 108, thecustomer device 120, and a plurality of service-provider devices 360connect to the Internet 116. The logistics system 108 comprises thelogistics engine 320, the logistics repository 328, the customerinterface 324, a service interface 364, a provider management module366, and a profile repository 368. The service interface 364communicates with the service-provider devices 360. The logistics engine320 is in communication with the suitcase 132 (e.g., through the modem416, described in reference to FIG. 6). The service interface 364 allowsthe service-provider device 360 to interact with the suitcase 132.

In some embodiments, information from service-provider devices 360 isaccessed through the service interface 364, which accesses availableapplication programming interfaces at and/or through theservice-provider devices 360, and communicates the information from theservice-provider devices to subsystems of the logistics system 108, suchas the logistics engine 320, customer interface 324, and/or logisticsrepository 328. The service interface 364, as appropriate, enables thelogistics system 108, and/or subsystems of the logistics system 108, tomonitor and report location information and/or progress information ofthe suitcase 132; to modify elements of a route of the suitcase 132, ifrequested and/or if necessary; to communicate to other service-providerdevices 360; and/or to manage service providers, as appropriate.

For example, the customer device 120 has one version of a mobileapplication (i.e., mobile app); a hotel staff member has a secondversion of the mobile application on an iPad; and a dry cleaner has athird version of the mobile application on an iPad. Profiles of thecustomer, the hotel staff member, and the dry cleaner are stored in theprofile repository 368. The customer, the hotel staff member, and thedry cleaner are each permitted different information and access to thesuitcase 132 based on a version of the mobile application and/or aprofile. For example, the customer is allowed to select locations tosend the suitcase 132 and unlock the suitcase 132. A bellhop is able toscan a 2-D barcode on the screen 470 and determine a room number toplace the suitcase 132 in, without necessarily learning anidentification of the customer. The bellhop is also able to providestatus updates and schedule pick up of the suitcase 132 by apackage-delivery service 166. The dry cleaner is able to unlock thesuitcase 132 and provide status updates. In some embodiments, requestsfor action or information are authenticated.

In some embodiments, the service interface 364 also interfaces withservice-provider devices 360 to authenticate or otherwise authorizeprovider personnel. For example, provider personnel may use a smartphoneinterface to send and receive information to and from the logisticssystem 108, and/or subsystems of the logistics system 108, such asscanning a suitcase 132 or indicating a location change for a suitcase132. The provider personnel smartphone interface software may be freelydownloadable from a smartphone manufacturer app store or other appstore; after downloading the provider personnel smartphone interfacesoftware, an employee of, or contractor working for, the serviceprovider can enter credentials of the provider personnel, such asemployee number, email address, and/or password into the providerpersonnel smartphone interface software. The smartphone interfacesoftware in turn can authenticate the provider personnel directly (e.g.,on a system device of the provider) and/or via the service interface364. In some embodiments, authentication includes employing federatedelectronic identity technologies such as OAuth, OpenID, Liberty ID,single sign-on, SAML, and/or another federated electronic identitytechnology. If the service provider 124 does not have systems supportingfederated electronic identity, the provider management module 366 candirectly support provider personnel enrollment, verification, credentialmanagement (e.g., user ID, password, biometric data, and/or othercredentials), and/or user authentication. The provider personnelsmartphone interface software may provide support for scanning thedynamic display 412 using a built-in camera or may support identifying,or optionally communicating with, the suitcase 132 using one or morecommunication protocols, such as NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct, and/orother device-to-device direct communication protocol.

As has been discussed, there are different mobile apps for differentfunctionality and/or users. For example, there is a customer app for thecustomer, a first service app for a first type of service provider(e.g., for hotel staff), a second service app for a second type ofservice provider (e.g., for dry cleaners), etc. Thus the customer appcould track one or more pieces of luggage belonging to, or associatedwith, the customer, and the first service app could track multiplepieces of luggage under control of the service provider (e.g., allsuitcases in the hotel). But the different apps are all communicatingwith a single, integrated cloud-based system (e.g., logistics system108). Furthermore, additional apps can be made for additional functions.For example, in some embodiments, an assistant app is used by anassistant to track one or more boss' suitcase(s). The assistant couldwork for a first boss and a second boss. The assistant app could linktogether luggage information for the first boss and the second boss. Theassistant, based on permissions granted, could then perform tasks suchas track luggage, schedule replacement contents, schedule delivery, etc.

In some embodiments, after the provider personnel smartphone interfacesoftware scans the dynamic display 412, and/or otherwise identifies thesuitcase 132, the provider personnel smartphone communicates with theservice interface 364, which can optionally provide instructions and/orcodes to be communicated to the suitcase 132 and/or communicate directlyto the modem 416 of the suitcase 132. For example, the dynamic display412 can be instructed to display different or additional information.Continuing with the example of the Tucson to New York trip, when thesuitcase 132 arrives at the hotel in New York, the hotel bellman, whohas previously logged into the provider personnel smartphone interfacesoftware with the user name and password provided by his employer andbeen authenticated through the service interface 364 by the hotel'shuman resources system as an employee of the hotel, can scan thesuitcase 132 using the provider personnel smartphone interface softwareutilizing a camera on the smartphone. The provider personnel smartphoneinterface software then communicates to the service interface 364, whichcommunicates via the Internet 116 with the hotel's reservationmanagement system to obtain the customer's assigned room number, andthen communicates wirelessly, using the Internet 116 and/or cellularnetwork, to the modem 416 of the suitcase 132 and instructs the dynamicdisplay 412 to stop displaying the FedEx label and instead to displaythe customer's room number. Note that this system also provides enhancedsecurity and privacy for the customer since the hotel bellman neverlearns personally-identifying information about the customer (e.g., thecustomer's name, gender, age, etc.).

Though many embodiments have discussed delivery by a parcel service(e.g., to and from a hotel or a residence), many other deliverydestinations are possible. For example, the suitcase 132 could bedelivered to a restaurant; a business office; a particular office roomor conference room of the business office; a bank; a rental carbusiness; a car of the rental car business that is to be rented by thecustomer; a trunk of the rental car; a train station; an airport; alounge (e.g., a lounge at an airport); a golf course; a ski resort; anda gym. Many possible delivery destinations are possible and moreefficient, in some embodiments, because of the dynamic display 412and/or the logistics system 108. For example, the customer leavesluggage containing golf clubs at a golf course, and the customerindicates (e.g., by an app on a smart phone or using the dynamic display412) that the luggage containing golf clubs is to return to a storagelocation. The indication is received by the logistics system 108. Thelogistics system 108 transmits a notification to a parcel service topick up the luggage containing golf clubs with an address of the golfcourse and updates the screen 470 to reflect a parcel label. In someembodiments, the address of the golf course is selected by the customer,determined by a location of the customer's smartphone at a time that thecustomer indicates that the luggage containing golf clubs is to returnto storage, and/or a GPS receiver of the luggage containing golf clubs.

Further, more than one piece of luggage can be used for a trip, but havedifferent handling/delivery details. For example, the customer couldhave a first piece of luggage, containing clothes, delivered to a hotelin a city; and a second piece of luggage, containing presentation/demoequipment, to be delivered to a trunk of a rental car in the city. Whenthe customer arrives by air to the city, the customer rents the rentalcar. The customer then travels in the rental car to an office to give apresentation. After the presentation, the customer goes to the hotel inthe city. In this example, the customer does not need to travel with thefirst piece of luggage to the office to give the presentation.

It is noted that embodiments in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are not exclusiveembodiments, but have been shown and described to provide anunderstanding of aspects of this invention to a person skilled in theart. Certainly, some embodiments contain all functions and/or featuresdiscussed in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C; and some embodiments have less thanall functions and/or features discussed in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C,depending on design criteria and desired functionality. Similarly, aperson skilled in the art will recognize that many elements disclosed inthis application can be combined, omitted, and/or rearranged with otherelements depending on design criteria and desired functionality.

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, simplified diagrams of embodiments of asuitcase 132 for delivery from a storage facility are depicted. In FIG.4A, a block diagram of an embodiment of a suitcase 132 is shown. Thesuitcase 132 comprises a luggage engine 404, luggage memory 408, adynamic display 412, a modem 416, a tamper lock 420, and a register 424.The luggage engine 404, the luggage memory 408, the dynamic display 412,the modem 416, the tamper lock 420, and the register 424 are connectedto communicate via a communication bus 428. The luggage engine 404comprises one or more processors. The luggage memory 408 comprises oneor more memory devices. The modem 416 is used to transmit data to and/orreceive data from one or more computing devices (e.g., server, desktopcomputer, laptop, and/or mobile device) In optional aspects of theembodiment, the modem 416 may comprise one or more of: a cellular ornon-cellular mobile device; a Wi-Fi or other fixed wireless device; aBluetooth, near field communication, beacon, or other short-rangedevice; a Global Positioning System device; an audible or inaudiblesound-generating and/or sound-receiving device component; an opticaldevice; and/or other component for the purpose of communicating toand/or from people and/or machines.

In FIG. 4B a simplified sketch of an embodiment of the suitcase 132 isshown. The suitcase 132 is basically rectangular in shape and compriseswheels 450, a zipper 454 with two zipper pulls 458, and a handle 462 forpulling the suitcase 132. In some embodiments, the suitcase 132 is sizedas a carry on for air travel (e.g., less than 45 linear inches/114linear cm; or less than 22×14×9 inches/56×35×23 cm). In someembodiments, the suitcase 132 is a fold-over suitcase for transporting asuit. Other forms of luggage will be apparent to a person of ordinaryskill in the art. In this disclosure, a piece of luggage is considered abag. A bag is a portable container for carrying items. Though thisdisclosure discusses suitcases, similar processes can be used for othertypes of bags. The suitcase 132 further comprises a console 466. Theconsole, in this embodiment, is shown having a screen 470, a lockingmechanism 474, and an antenna 478. In some embodiments, the screen 470is an electronic screen. The console 466 further comprises a processor,which can function as the luggage engine 404, and luggage memory 408.The zipper pulls 458 are secured by the locking mechanism 474 in aposition to secure the suitcase 132 in a closed position (e.g., zipper454 secures a lid 486 to a bin portion 490 of the suitcase 132). In someembodiments, the antenna 478 is internal to the console 466. In someembodiments, the antenna 478 receives a signal to unlock the lockingmechanism 474 and an actuator in the console 466 unlocks the lockingmechanism 474. The console 466 further comprises a mechanical-accesslock 482. In some embodiments, the screen 470 is used to display routinginformation, such as a parcel label for shipping through a parcelservice, instructions for handling and/or processing, and/orinstructions for the customer.

Referring next to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, simplified diagrams ofembodiments of the dynamic display 412 used with the suitcase 132 areshown. In FIG. 5A, A block diagram of the dynamic display 412 is shown.The dynamic display 412 comprises a screen 470, a display engine 508, apower source 516, and display memory 520.

The screen 470 is dynamically updated to enable and/or indicatesequential and/or flexible routing and/or re-routing through a series ofroute stops, routing and/or re-routing to multiple destinations, routingand/or re-routing to a specific location within an overall location (forexample, to a specific hotel room within a hotel at a street address),and/or to communicate other information, in human readable form and/orsystem readable format. In some embodiments, the screen 470 displaysinformation that serves as a mailing label. For example, the screen 470is configured to show an address, including street address, city, state,and zip code. In some embodiments, the screen 470 shows a symbol, suchas a bar code (1-D or 2-D) or QR code, or displays OCR readablecharacters or other machine readable information. The screen 470 candisplay information for a particular package-delivery service, freighttransporter, transportation company, courier service, car service, hotelor other travel-related company, for a provider of services related tocontent of the suitcase, for security services such as the United StatesTransportation Services Authority, and/or for another party that maytransport, monitor, move, open, or otherwise handle the suitcase and/orits content. Some examples of providers of package-delivery servicesinclude The United States Postal Service, FedEx, UPS, DHL, and ParcelPool. Additionally, other common carriers and/or contract carriersprovide package-delivery services. Further, the screen 470 can provideinstructions for service providers that are not normally in business forpackage delivery. For example, the screen 470 could provide instructionsto a bellhop of a hotel to place the suitcase 132 in the mailroom for aFedEx 10:30 am pickup.

Though many different forms of electronic displays can be used for thescreen 470 (e.g., liquid crystal display or light emitting diodes), insome embodiments an electronic-paper display is used to conserve power.

The display engine 508 determines what is displayed on the screen 470.In some embodiments, what is displayed on the screen 470 changesmultiple times from a point of origin to a final destination. Forexample, the display engine 508 causes the screen 470 to displayinstructions for a bellhop in a hotel to give the suitcase 132 to acourier service. After the courier service picks up the suitcase 132,the display engine 508 causes the screen 470 to display an address of aUPS store nearby. Once the suitcase 132 is at the UPS store, the displayengine 508 causes the screen 470 to display a UPS label, which includesa two-dimensional barcode that is read by a UPS barcode reader, to sendthe suitcase 132 to an address in another city.

In some embodiments, the dynamic display 412 is configured to recover,or re-display, a previously displayed screen and/or label. For example,the suitcase 132 first displays a shipping label for FedEx. FedEx dropsoff the suitcase 132 at a hotel, and the dynamic display 412 changes todisplay a room number. But an employee at the hotel realizes thesuitcase 132 has been delivered to the wrong hotel. The dynamic display412 is updated to re-display the shipping label for FedEx, so thesuitcase 132 can be picked up and properly delivered using an originalparcel number. For example, when the dynamic display 412 changes, thedynamic display 412 could have a button appear on the screen 470indicating a mistaken delivery, such as “Wrong delivery?”. The employeeof the hotel presses the button “Wrong delivery?” and the shipping labelfor FedEx is redisplayed. In some embodiments, an indication of amistaken delivery is transmitted to a service provider, such as FedEx.For example, the suitcase 132, via the modem 416, sends a message to alogistics system that the suitcase 132 was delivered incorrectly.

In some embodiments, instructions are further provided on the screen 470if there has been a mistaken delivery, such as “Please place thispackage outside the door it was left at. A FedEx representative has beennotified and will stop by to pick up this package.”; or “Please placethis package in a safe place and a courier will contact you to retrievethis package. If in doubt of the authenticity of the courier, please askthe courier for a pin number associated with this package. The pinnumber for this package is: 4798.” In some embodiments, the employee atthe hotel indicates a mistaken delivery by a mobile app on a smartphoneof the employee at the hotel using a scan of the suitcase 132 (e.g.,taking a picture of the screen 470) and/or by entering a unique numberof the suitcase 132 that is displayed on the screen 470 and/orphysically marked on the suitcase 132. The employee at the hotel canalso receive instructions by the mobile app for actions to takeregarding the mistaken delivery.

In some embodiments, a confirmation screen on the screen 470 is used.For example, When FedEx delivers the suitcase 132 to the hotel, anemployee would have to sign for the suitcase (e.g., using the screen470) or touch an icon on the screen 470 indicating acceptance and/orcorrect delivery. In some embodiments, the dynamic display comprises acamera, and when the screen 470 is touched (e.g., touching the icon),and/or signed, the camera activates to acquire one or more picturesand/or a video segment. In some embodiments, the one or more picturesand/or video segment are used to help verify who accepted the suitcase132.

In some embodiments, a copy of what is displayed on the screen 470 istransmitted for display on a second device. For example, the customerhas a smartphone and a customer app on the smart phone has a feature todisplay on the smartphone what is displayed on the screen 470. In someembodiments, the customer app is configured to display similarinformation to what is displayed on the screen 470. For example, thescreen 470 actually displays a 2-D barcode; and the customer appdisplays a small image of the 2-D barcode and a textual translationand/or summary of information contained in the 2-D barcode. In someembodiments, the customer app is configured to present information onthe screen 470 in a common format to the customer even though the screen470 may actually display delivery instructions in multiple differentformats. Examples of information presented by the customer app include:parcel number, delivery address, an image of the screen 470, a historyof changes to the screen 470, and future, expected changes to the screen470. For future, expected changes a whole label, partial label, and/ordelivery information could be shown. For example, if a carrier isalready selected, then a whole label could be shown (e.g., including acarrier's parcel number); but if a carrier is not selected yet, thenjust a next destination address and/or location is displayed.

In some embodiments, the screen 470 is also a touch screen and theluggage engine 404 receives information through the touch screen. Forexample, once a courier receives the suitcase 132, the courier enters acode in the touch screen. The screen 470 then displays the address ofthe UPS store nearby and the bellhop is satisfied that the courier isauthentic and taking the correct piece of luggage. In optional aspectsof some embodiments, the display engine 508 and/or the luggage engine404 determine the information, or the format of the information, to bedisplayed, or that no information is to be displayed, on the screen 470based on instructions or information received via the modem 416 or basedon location, time and/or date, interaction with another device or with asoftware application on another device, identity of another entity suchas a transportation or other service provider, an event, an event withina sequence of events, and/or receipt of manual input at the suitcase.

The display engine 508 is linked to the modem 416. The display engine508 receives and/or sends instructions and/or data to the modem 416. Insome embodiments, the display engine 508 changes what is displayed onthe screen 470 based on received instructions and/or data from the modem416. In some embodiments, the display engine 508 transmits data aboutthe suitcase 132 (e.g., location, delivery confirmation, etc.) to themodem 416. The modem 416 is explained in more detail in in thediscussion of FIG. 6 below.

The power source 516 of the dynamic display 412 can be separate orcombined with a power system of the suitcase 132. In some embodiments,the power source 516 is a battery. In some embodiments, the power source516 is AC power (e.g., 420V, 240V, and/or 250V) and/or DC power (e.g.,power from a USB cable and/or a battery or batteries). In someembodiments, data is transferred through the USB cable to and from thesuitcase 132. In some embodiments, power source 516 is a battery thatcan be recharged wirelessly, for example when the battery is withinrange or a wireless recharging component.

The dynamic display 412 further comprises display memory 520. In someembodiments, the display memory 520 is part of the luggage memory 408.In some embodiments, the display memory 520 is separate from the luggagememory 408.

In FIG. 5B, a simplified sketch of an embodiment of the console 466 isshown. The console 466 comprises the screen 470 (as part of the dynamicdisplay 412), the locking mechanism 474, the mechanical-access lock 482,and the antenna 478. Also shown as part of the console 466 is a port 524(e.g., used to make an electrical connection with another device usingstructures such as USB, Firewire (IEEE 1394), eSATA, Ethernet, HDMI,Display Port, Lightning, RCA, S-Video, phone connector (e.g., TS, TRS,TRRS), and/or other wired connection), and a battery door 528. In someembodiments, the port 524 is used to power the console 466. In someembodiments, the port 524 is used power another device. In someembodiments, the port 524 is used to send and receive information to andfrom the processor and/or memory device of the console 466. In someembodiments, the port 524 is used to charge another device (e.g., amobile phone). The battery door 528 is used to access a batterycompartment. The battery compartment holds one or more batteries as apower source for the console 466 (e.g., AAA, AA, C, D, button cell,lithium, etc.). In some embodiments, the console 466 further comprises asolar panel to completely or partially power the console 466. Theconsole 466 is shown further comprising the locking mechanism 474 andthe mechanical-access lock 482. The zipper pulls 458 are secured usingthe locking mechanism 474. The locking mechanism 474 can be unlocked byreceiving an electronic signal (e.g., via the antenna 478 and/or theport 524). In some embodiments, the mechanical-access lock 482 is usedin addition to an electronic locking device to unlock the lockingmechanism 474. For example, the mechanical-access lock 482 is atumbler-style lock that is TSA (Transportation Security Administration)compliant so that the suitcase 132 can be opened by TSA. In anotherexample, the mechanical-access lock 482 is used if the console 466 losespower and/or if other problems arise using an electronic signal tounlock the suitcase 132. In some embodiments, the mechanical-access lock482 is a tubular lock, a combination lock, magnetic-keyed lock, and/orother type of lock. In some embodiments, the console 466 is built into asuitcase 132 during manufacturing. In some embodiments, the console isinside the suitcase 132 and the console does not comprise the tamperlock 420.

FIG. 5C shows a simplified side view of an embodiment of the console466. The console has a front comprising the screen 470 and a back 560opposite the front. Bolts 564 protrude from the back 560 of the console466. Nuts 568 screw on the bolts to secure material between the nuts 568and the back 560 of the console 466. The bolts 564 and nuts 568 are usedto secure the console 466 to a pre-made piece luggage or other bag(e.g., the pre-made piece of luggage is manufactured by an entitydifferent from an entity that manufactured the console 466 and/or thatoperates the logistics system 108).

Referring next to FIG. 6, a block diagram of an embodiment of the modem416 is shown. The modem 416 allows the suitcase 132 to communicate withthe customer, a service provider (e.g., hotel staff and/or dry cleaningstaff), and/or other devices (e.g., a station or server for the modem416 to beacon back location/status of the suitcase 132 and/or a customerdevice), or communicate wirelessly with other authorized orauthenticated systems. The modem 416 comprises a communication engine604 in communication with various communication elements. In thisembodiment, the communication engine 604 is connected to a USB(Universal Serial Bus) port 524, a near field chip 616, a Bluetooth chip620, and a wireless transceiver 624. It will be appreciated that thevarious communication elements need not all be present in otherembodiments. For example, in some embodiments of the modem 416, themodem 416 does not have the near field chip 616. In some embodiments,the modem 416 has only the communication engine 604 and the wirelesstransceiver 624. The modem 416 has one or more of the variouscommunication elements depending on cost and desired functionality.

In some embodiments, the modem 416 comprises a GPS receiver 626 thatreceives signals from one or more GPS satellites 627. The GPS receiverprovides to the logistics system 108 updates regarding a location of thesuitcase 132.

The communication engine 604 is also connected, by the communication bus428, to the luggage engine 404, the luggage memory 408, the dynamicdisplay 412, the tamper lock 420, and the register 424.

The port 524 provides a wired port to the modem 416. Though theembodiment in FIG. 6 has a port 524, other wired ports could be used toestablish a wired connection between the suitcase 132 and anotherdevice.

The near field chip 616 and the Bluetooth chip 620 provide relativelyclose-range communication between the suitcase 132 and second device. Insome embodiments, close-range communication is less than 10, 5, or 2feet separation between the suitcase 132 and the second device.

The wireless transceiver 624 enables the communication engine 604 toconnect with a cell tower. Thus the modem 416 can send and/or receivedata (e.g., text messages) using mobile phone technology. Further, insome embodiments, the wireless transceiver 624 is configured to connectto a local area network (LAN) 632 and/or a wide area network. In someembodiments, two wireless transceivers 624 are used, one to connect tothe cell tower 140 (e.g., 700, 800, 850, and/or 4900 MHz) and one toconnect to the LAN 632 (e.g., 900, 2400, and/or 5000 MHz). In someembodiments, the cell tower 140 and/or the LAN 632 provide a connectionto the Internet 116.

In some embodiments, the modem 416 also comprises an RFID chip. The RFIDchip is used to identify the suitcase 132 to another device.

Referring next to FIG. 7A, a block diagram of an embodiment of thetamper lock 420 of the suitcase 132 is shown. The tamper lock 420comprises a security engine 704, an actuator 708, a locking device 712,a security repository 716, a biometrics reader 720, and a manualoverride 724. The locking device 712 locks the suitcase 132. Forexample, the locking device 712 comprises the locking mechanism 474,wherein zipper pulls 458 of the suitcase 132 are secured by the lockingmechanism 474. In some embodiments, the locking device 712 is integratedinto a housing (e.g., console 466) that also comprises the screen 470.In some embodiments, some or all of the security engine 704, thesecurity repository 716, a subset of the security engine 704, a subsetof the security repository 716, or the biometrics reader 720 arephysically separate from the suitcase and/or from the other components.For example, the security repository 716 and an authenticating subset ofthe security engine 704 may operate from a secured network location,interacting with an application software module executing on asmartphone that utilizes a smartphone's fingerprint reader component asthe biometrics reader 720; in this example embodiment, the smartphoneapplication software module reads a fingerprint read from the smartphonefingerprint reader to obtain biometric data, transmits the biometricdata to the authenticating subset of the security engine 704, which inturn authenticates the biometric data against the security repository716, and upon successful authentication of the biometric data issues anunlock code or command to the security engine 704 in the suitcase, or tothe luggage engine 404 in the suitcase, or to the locking device 712 inthe suitcase.

The security engine 704 is in communication with the modem 416 and thebiometrics reader 720. The actuator 708 unlocks the locking device 712.The security engine 704 receives a request to unlock the locking device712 from the modem 416 and/or the biometrics reader 720. The securityengine 704 queries the security repository 716 to authenticate therequest to unlock the locking device 712. After the security engine 704authenticates the request to unlock the locking device 712, the securityengine 704 transmits a signal to the actuator 708 to unlock the lockingdevice 712. In some embodiments, the actuator 708 uses anelectro-magnet.

As an example, a customer wishing to unlock the suitcase 132 uses aninterface on a mobile device to request the suitcase 132 to be unlocked.The request for the suitcase 132 to be unlocked is transmitted from themobile device to the modem 416 of the suitcase 132. The request for thesuitcase 132 to be unlocked could be transmitted to the modem 416 viathe Internet 116, the LAN 632, the cell tower 140, the Bluetooth chip620, and/or the port 524. The modem 416 transmits the request for thesuitcase 132 to be unlocked to the security engine 704. The securityengine 704 authenticates the request to the suitcase 132 to be unlockedby retrieving a data file from the security repository 716. Afterauthentication, security engine 704 transmits a signal to the actuator708. The actuator 708 then unlocks the locking device 712 and thecustomer can open the suitcase 132. In some embodiments, anopen-and-lock log is kept and/or transmitted to the customer.

In some embodiments, the customer sends a text message with a code tothe modem 416 and/or a central server and the locking device 712 isunlocked. In some embodiments, a user (e.g., customer and/or serviceprovider(s)) wishing to unlock the suitcase 132 use a fingerprint readeron a mobile device for authentication. In some embodiments, the suitcase132 has multiple compartments with different locking devices 712. Forexample, one compartment of the suitcase 132 is used for clothing and asecond compartment of the suitcase 132 is used to store valuables (e.g.,watches and jewelry). The first compartment has a locking device 712that can be unlocked by a dry cleaner, so the dry cleaner can remove andwash the clothes. But the second compartment has a locking device 712that can be opened by only the customer (with maybe one exception beinghelp-desk support). In some embodiments, the second compartment can beopened only manually.

In some embodiments, authentication is performed remotely from thesuitcase 132. For example, the customer requests the suitcase 132 to beunlocked using a mobile device. The request for the suitcase 132 to beunlocked is transmitted to a central server. The central serverauthenticates the request for the suitcase 132 to be unlocked. Thecentral server then sends a command to the modem 416 of the suitcase 132for the security engine 704 to unlock the locking device 712. Therequest for the suitcase 132 to be unlocked is transmitted to thecentral server or to the modem 416 of the suitcase. The customer is thenprovided a temporary pin (e.g., via text message or through a userinterface). The customer enters the temporary pin (e.g., a touch screenpart of the screen 470) and the locking device 712 is unlocked. In someembodiments, a text message with a temporary pin is generated and sentto the customer automatically after the customer requests the suitcase132 be sent to a destination.

In some embodiments, the tamper lock 420 has a manual override 724 sothat a customer can unlock the suitcase 132. For example, the manualoverride 724 is a combination lock having buttons, scrolls, and/orwheels with characters and/or numbers. In some embodiments, the manualoverride 724 is a tangible key.

Referring next to FIG. 7B, a block diagram of another embodiment of thetamper lock 420 of the suitcase 132 is shown. In FIG. 7B, the tamperlock 420 comprises the actuator 708 and the locking device 712. Theactuator 708 is electronically connected with the modem 416. Thesecurity engine 704 and the security repository 716 are located awayfrom the suitcase 132. The modem 416 communicates with the securityengine 704 and/or the security repository 716 via the Internet 116. Acustomer device 120 is also connected to the Internet 116. In thisembodiment, the customer device 120 transmits a request, includingcredentials, to the security engine 704 for the suitcase 132 to beunlocked. The security engine 704 is located on a server connected tothe Internet 116. The security engine 704 compares the credentials witha key in the security repository 716 (e.g., the security repository 716stored on a hard drive (or other storage device) of the server or on ahard drive (or other storage device) of a different server). Thesecurity engine 704 authenticates the request from the customer device120 and transmits a signal to the modem 416 for the suitcase to beunlocked. The modem 416 transmits the signal to the actuator 708, andthe actuator 708 unlocks the locking device 712. In some embodiments,having the security engine 704 and the security repository 716 separatefrom the suitcase 132 enables a system to take advantage of computingand storing information in the cloud.

Referring next to FIG. 8, a block diagram of an embodiment of theregister 424 of the suitcase 132 is shown. The register 424 comprises aninventory engine 804, an RFID reader 808, a plurality of RFID tags 812,and an inventory repository 816. The RFID reader 808 is attached to thesuitcase 132 and is in communication with the modem 416. The RFID tags812 are attached to items to be put in the suitcase 132. In someembodiments, the RFID tags 812 are placed on or in personal items. Forexample, RFID tags are sewn into shirt and/or pant hems. In someembodiments, optically readable or scan-able tags, such as barcode tags,OCR tags, and other printed or preprinted tags, are used instead of, orin addition to, RFID tags. In some embodiments, some or all of theinventory engine 804, RFID reader 808, and inventory repository 816 arephysically separate from the suitcase and/or from the other components.

The inventory engine 804 causes the RFID reader 808 to sense which RFIDtags 812 are within range of the RFID reader 808. The RFID reader 808receives an indication which RFID tags 812 are within range. In someembodiments, the RFID tags that are within range are recorded and timestamped and a file stored in the inventory repository 816.

The inventory repository 816 stores a manifest 817 and/or an inventorylist (e.g., records 818 of items in the suitcase) for the suitcase 132.In some embodiments, the inventory repository 816 stores an inventorylist of items belonging to the customer, but not currently in theparticular suitcase 132, either in another suitcase associated with thecustomer or not currently in any suitcase associated with the customer;stores information about, or attributes related to, the customer, orabout a group including the customer (such as the customer's householdmembers), or about one or more groups that may be related to thecustomer, such as sizes, styles, brand preferences, and the like; storesinventory history of the suitcase 132; and/or stores item utilizationhistory associated with the suitcase 132, the customer, or both. Theinventory list comprises items that were in the suitcase 132 when theinventory list was created. The inventory engine 804 compares theinventory list to the items corresponding to the RFID tags 812 that arewithin range of the RFID reader 808. The inventory engine 804 creates areconciliation report 819, wherein the reconciliation report 819identifies items that are on the inventory list and are within range ofthe RFID reader 808. The reconciliation report 819 also identifies itemsthat are on the inventory list but do not have a corresponding RFID tag812 that is within range of the RFID reader 808.

In some embodiments, if an RFID tag 812 is out of range of the RFIDreader 808 for more than a given time period (e.g., 10, 20, 30, or 60+minutes) then the personal item associate with the RFID tag 812 isflagged. In some embodiments, flagged personal items are washed afterthe suitcase 132 is returned from a destination. In some embodiments,personal items are individually wrapped in plastic if they are clean. Ifa personal item is removed from the plastic wrap then the personal itemis flagged for cleaning after the customer returns the suitcase 132. Insome embodiments, a moisture sensor and/or temperature sensor are usedto determine if a personal item is flagged for cleaning. In someembodiments, different compartments in the suitcase 132 are used todetermine if a personal item is flagged for cleaning (e.g., clothingitems to be cleaned are placed in a first compartment, and clothingitems not needing cleaned are placed in a second compartment). In someembodiments the suitcase 132 can be tagged not to be opened. In suchembodiments, the suitcase 132 is not opened even though some items maybe flagged for processing. In some embodiments, the customer can turn onand/or off the tag for the suitcase 132 to not be opened. For example,after a first trip the customer turns on the tag for the suitcase 132not to be opened, but after a second trip the customer turns off the tagfor the suitcase 132 not to be opened. A customer may choose to turn offthe tag for the suitcase 132 not to be opened based on a schedule and/orevent (e.g., after every third trip or before a trip if there has beennonuse of the suitcase 132 for over three months).

In some embodiments, the RFID tags 812 comprise information such as anaccount number of a customer and/or an item tag of a specific item. Insome embodiments, the RFID tags 812 comprise instructions. For example,a first RFID tag 812-1 is sewn into a shirt and contains instructions tolaunder and press using heavy starch. After the suitcase 132 is returnedby the customer, a dry cleaner uses an RFID reader and receivesinstructions for cleaning and starching the shirt.

Referring next to FIG. 9A, a block diagram of an embodiment of aninventory display system for the suitcase 132 is shown. FIG. 9A issimilar to FIG. 8 with the addition that the modem 416 is in contactwith a customer device 120 (e.g., similar to customer device 120 in FIG.7B). Examples of a customer devices 120 include personal computers,mobile phones, tablets, and computerized eyewear (e.g., Google Glass).The modem 416 can be in contact with the customer device 120 using oneor more of the various communication elements as describe in FIG. 6.

The inventory engine 804 transmits the reconciliation report 819 and/orrecords 818 through the modem 416 and to the customer device 120. Thus,in some embodiments, the customer can know the contents of the suitcase132 in real time or near real time (based on the refresh rate of theRFID reader 808 and communication speed of the customer device 120 withthe modem 416). In some embodiments, the reconciliation report 819 istransmitted to a service provider.

Referring next to FIG. 9B, a block diagram of another embodiment of theinventory display system for the suitcase 132 is shown. In FIG. 9B, theregister 424 comprises the RFID tags 812 and the RFID reader 808. TheRFID reader 808 is electronically connected with the modem 416. Theinventory engine 804 and the inventory repository 816 are located awayfrom the suitcase 132. The modem 416 communicates with the inventoryengine 804 and/or the inventory repository 816 via the Internet 116. Theinventory engine 804 is located on a server connected to the Internet116. The inventory repository 816 is stored on a hard drive (or otherstorage device) of the server or a different server. The customer device120 is also connected to the Internet 116. In this embodiment,information about RFID tags 812 is transmitted from the RFID reader 808to the modem 416 and to the inventory engine 804 and/or the inventoryrepository 816 via the internet 116. The inventory engine 804 transmitsthe reconciliation report 819 and/or other information to the customerdevice 120 via the Internet 116. The inventory engine 804 also receivesrequests for information from the customer device 120 via the Internet116. In some embodiments, having the inventory engine 804 and theinventory repository 816 separate from the suitcase 132 enables a systemto take advantage of computing and storing information in the “Cloud.”

It will be appreciate by those skilled in the art that elements and/orfunctionality of the suitcase 132 in FIGS. 4 through 9 can be combined,omitted, and/or rearranged based on design criteria and desiredfunctionality. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatfurther elements of the suitcase 132 can be performed and/or moved intothe “Cloud” (such as the luggage engine 404 and/or luggage memory 408).For example, in some embodiments, the suitcase 132 comprises the dynamicdisplay 412, the wireless transceiver 624, the actuator 708, and thelocking device 712; the luggage engine 404, the luggage memory 408, thedisplay engine 508, the communication engine 604, and the securityengine 704 are consolidated to a server connected to the Internet 116;and the register 424, the near field chip 616, the port 524, and theBluetooth chip 620 are omitted. In some embodiments, the tamper lock 420is also omitted.

In some embodiments, the reconciliation report comprises a graphic foreach item on the inventory list. For an item on the inventory list thatis not within range of the RFID reader, the graphic is muted (e.g.,grayed out). In some embodiments, the customer can select an item on thereconciliation report and provide instruction for processing the item onthe reconciliation report. For example, the customer can request theitem on the reconciliation report 819 be mended. In another example, thecustomer requests the item on the reconciliation report 819 be removedfrom the manifest 817 of the suitcase 132 and/or requests the item bereplaced with another specific item (e.g., a particular shirt), orgenerally with another item (e.g., another business shirt having buttonsand a collar).

In FIG. 10, a simplified diagram of a customer interface for managingshipping of one or more suitcases 132 is shown. In some embodiments, acustomer has more than one suitcase 132. The customer interface 324enables the customer to track and manage suitcases 132. In someembodiments, a customer has more than one suitcase 132 and storessuitcases 132 based on travel history and/or preferences of thecustomer. For example, the customer could have a first suitcase 132-1staged (e.g., stored) on the west coast of the United States and asecond suitcase 132-2 staged on the east coast of the United States.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process 1100 forrouting a suitcase 132 for delivery. The process 1100 for routing asuitcase begins in step 1104 where a suitcase 132 is received from acustomer. In some embodiments, the customer takes pictures of itemsplaced in the suitcase 132 and uploads the pictures through the customerinterface 324. In some embodiments, an inventory of the suitcase 132 ismade after the suitcase 132 is received from the customer. In someembodiments, if the inventory of the suitcase 132 is made after thesuitcase 132 is received from the customer, the customer is allowed tomodify names and/or pictures of inventory items.

In step 1108, the suitcase is stored at a first location. In someembodiments, the first location is the storage facility 150. A firstrequest for the suitcase 132 is received, wherein the first requestspecifies that the suitcase 132 is to be sent to a second location, step1112. The suitcase 132 is routed to the second location, step 1116. Instep 4120, a second request is received, wherein the second requestspecifies that the suitcase is to be sent to a third location. In step4124, the suitcase 132 is routed to the third location.

In some embodiments, the logistics system 108 provides the customer withinformation about two suitcases, a first suitcase 132-1 and a secondsuitcase 132-2; and receives instructions from the customer that includea desired location to send the first suitcase 132-1 to a first desiredlocation and to send the second suitcase 132-2 to a second desiredlocation. In some embodiments, the first desired location is differentfrom the second desired location (e.g., different cities). In someembodiments, the suitcase 132 is stored at a fourth location after beingrouted to the second location and before being routed to the thirdlocation. In some embodiments, the suitcase is stored at the fourthlocation based on a travel history of the customer; customer preference;and/or future travel plans. In some embodiments, items in the suitcase132 are processed (e.g., cleaned, polished) before the suitcase 132 isrouted to the third location. In some embodiments, the screen 470 isused in routing the suitcase 132 (e.g., displays a FedEx label). In someembodiments, paper labels are used in routing the suitcase 132.

In some embodiments, the logistics system 108 provides the customerflight information, emergency notifications regarding events near thesecond location and/or the third location, and/or tips regarding traveland using the suitcases 132. For example, tips could include suggesteditems to pack and/or remove from the suitcase; suggested items to bringthat are not included in the suitcase 132; and/or a suggestion to getanother suitcase 132 based on travel history.

Referring next to FIG. 12 a flowchart of an embodiment of a process 4200for routing a suitcase 132 for delivery using multiple interfaces isshown. The process 4200 for routing a suitcase using multiple interfacesbegins in step 4204 by providing access to a first interface (e.g.,customer interface 324) to the customer. In step 4208, a serviceprovider is given access to a second interface (e.g., service interface364). In step 1212, an instruction is received through the firstinterface to send the suitcase 132 from a first location (e.g., storagefacility 150) to a second location (e.g., destination). In step 1216, arequest for information is received through the second interface. Instep 1220 the suitcase 132 is routed to the second location. And in step1224, the request for information is fulfilled.

In some embodiments, a second instruction is received, the secondinstruction being received from the service provider through the secondinterface; wherein the service provider is a dry cleaning business andthe second instruction is to open the suitcase. In some embodiments,requests are authenticated. In some embodiments, the service provider isa hotel and the request for information is a room number of thecustomer. In some embodiments, the service provider is a cleaner and therequest for information is for a list of items and/or processinginstruction for items in the suitcase 132.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process 1300 forproviding a second suitcase to a customer when a first suitcase isunavailable. The process 1300 beings in step 1304 where a request isreceived from the customer to send a first suitcase from a firstlocation to a second location. In step 1308 preferences of the customerare acquired. In some embodiments, preferences include clothing sizes,clothing styles, and/or toiletry preferences (e.g., brand oftoothpaste). In step 1312 a determination is made to send the customer asecond suitcase instead of the first suitcase. In some embodiments, thesecond suitcase in an emergency suitcase. In step 1316 a request is sentto a service provider to provide the customer the second suitcase.

In some embodiments, the process 1300 for providing the second suitcaseis used when a customer is flying from one city and an airplane that thecustomer is flying is gets diverted. For example, a customer is flyingto New York City but the airplane is diverted to Washington, D.C.because of a snowstorm in New York City. A service provider inWashington, D.C. is contacted and compiles a change of clothes and sometoiletries for the emergency suitcase. In some embodiments, toiletrysamples are provided by vendors (e.g., free samples). In someembodiments, the service provider is a retail store (e.g., departmentstore and/or drug store). In some embodiments, the customer requests theemergency suitcase. In some embodiments, an emergency suitcase isprepared based on flight information of the customer without input fromthe customer.

In some embodiments, the emergency suitcase is provided if the suitcaseof the customer can't be delivered because of a delay by thepackage-delivery service 166. In some embodiments, the emergencysuitcase is provided if the suitcase of the customer can't be reroutedin time because of a schedule change of the customer. In someembodiments, if the customer changes a schedule, or requests a suitcasebe delivered within a short time period (e.g., within 24, 48, or 72hours), the customer is given price options for delivering the suitcaseand the emergency suitcase. The customer can then select from the priceoptions what the customer prefers to receive. In some embodiments, inlieu of or in addition to the emergency suitcase, the suitcase isrerouted for the customer. For example, the suitcase could be reroutedfrom New York City to Washington, D.C. (either by request from thecustomer or based on a stored preference of the customer). In someembodiments, delivery time of one or more suitcases is calculated andpresented to the customer. For example, the customer may be willing towait twelve hours for the suitcase in New York to be delivered toWashington, D.C. if given the option.

Referring next to FIG. 14 a flowchart of an embodiment of a process 1400for unlocking a suitcase 132 using a mobile device is shown. Process1400 beings in step 1404 by providing to a customer a suitcase having awireless receiver (e.g., suitcase 132 with wireless transceiver 624). Instep 1408 the suitcase 132 is routed from a first location (e.g.,storage facility 150) to a second location (e.g., a destination selectedby the customer). In step 1412, a request is received from a mobiledevice of the customer to unlock the suitcase 132. In step 1416, therequest to unlock the suitcase 132 is authenticated. In step 1420, acommand is transmitted to the wireless receiver to unlock the suitcase.

Referring to FIG. 15 a flowchart of an embodiment of a process 4500 fortracking items in a suitcase is shown. Process 4500 for tracking itemsin a suitcase begins in step 4504 where a plurality of RFID tags arequeried (e.g., sensed by RFID reader 808 attached to suitcase 132). Instep 4508, a plurality of items are identified based on querying theplurality of RFID tags. In step 1512 a repository is queried for aninventory of the suitcase 132. In some embodiments, the repository is ina memory device on the suitcase 132. In step 1516 an inventory report(e.g., a reconciliation report as described with FIG. 8) is generated.

A number of variations and modifications of the disclosed embodimentscan also be used. For example, other luggage and/or containers besides asuitcase could be used. For example, portable containers configured tobe shipped can be used. In some embodiments, portable containersconfigured to transport business equipment for presentations, such aspresentation materials (e.g., posters, projection screens, and/orprojectors), are used. In some embodiments, luggage for sportingequipment are used (e.g., containers for skis, golf clubs, huntingrifle/gear, and/or SCUBA gear). For example, a unit comprisingfunctionality of the dynamic display 412 and modem 416 is fastened to ahardened case (e.g., Pelican rifle case 472-PWC-M14-1) by the customer.The customer places a rifle in the hardened case and uses a smartphoneapp to select a destination for the hardened case. Thus the customerdoes not need to declare a firearm when traveling by air or worry abouttraveling with the rifle through locations that may have restrictivefirearm regulations. In some embodiments, a package-delivery service 166is a type of service provider 124, and interacts with the logisticssystem 108 through the service interface 364 similarly as otherservice-provider devices 360 can.

Additionally, other features, such as an integrated weight sensor (e.g.,built into a handle and/or wheel(s) of the suitcase) is used. In someembodiments, a generator integrated with a suitcase wheel or wheels isused to power electronics of the suitcase.

Further, features can be removed or added. For example, in someembodiments of the suitcase 132, the suitcase 132 does not use a dynamicdisplay 412. Instead the suitcase 132 uses traditional mailing labels.In another variation, repositories (e.g., security repository 716 and/orinventory repository 816) are part of the logistics system 108 insteadof the suitcase 132.

The above methods may be implemented by computer-program products thatdirect a computer system to perform the actions of the above-describedmethods and components. Each such computer-program product may comprisesets of instructions (codes) stored in a memory device. The instructionsmay be configured to run in sequential order, or in parallel (such asunder different processing threads), or in a combination thereof.

Specific details are given in the above description to provide athorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it is understoodthat the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.For example, circuits may be shown in block diagrams in order not toobscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances,well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniquesmay be shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring theembodiments.

Implementation of the techniques, blocks, steps and means describedabove may be done in various ways. For example, these techniques,blocks, steps and means may be implemented in hardware, software, or acombination thereof. For a hardware implementation, the processing unitsmay be implemented within one or more application specific integratedcircuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signalprocessing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), fieldprogrammable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers,micro-controllers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed toperform the functions described above, and/or a combination thereof.

While the principles of the disclosure have been described above inconnection with specific apparatuses and methods, it is to be clearlyunderstood that this description is made only by way of example and notas limitation on the scope of the disclosure.

1.-20. (canceled)
 21. A system for routing and tracking luggage, thesystem comprising: a first user device running a first instance of anapplication to initiate a first set of operations, wherein: a firstfunction in the first set of operations is selecting the plurality ofitems to populate the luggage, a second function in the first set ofoperations is selecting a first location to route the luggage, a thirdfunction in the first set of operations is triggering a logistics engineto populate the luggage, and a fourth function in the first set ofoperations is triggering the logistics engine to route the luggage tothe first location; a second user device running a second instance ofthe application to initiate a second set of operations, wherein: a firstfunction in the second set of operations includes routing the luggage tothe first location, a second function in the second set of operationsincludes transmitting a message to the logistics engine that the luggageis at the first location, a third function in the second set ofoperations includes tracking the luggage to the first location, and afourth function in the second set of operations includes transmittingthe tracking information to the logistics engine; a third user devicerunning a third instance of the application to initiate a third set ofoperations, wherein the third user device is a different device than thefirst user device and the second user device; and the logistics engine,wherein the logistics engine is a distributed system of multiple serversconfigured to: receive the trigger to populate the luggage, initiate theprocess to populate the luggage, receive the trigger to route theluggage to the first location, initiate the process to route the luggageto the first location, receive the message that the luggage is at thefirst location, trigger a message to display that the luggage is at thefirst location on the first user device, receive the trackinginformation, and trigger a message to display the tracking informationon the first user device.
 22. The system for routing and trackingluggage as recited in claim 21, wherein: a first function in the thirdset of operations includes sending a first request to the logisticsengine for a method to clean an item in the plurality of items, a secondfunction in the third set of operations includes cleaning the itemaccording to the selected method, and a third function in the third setof operations includes triggering the logistics engine that cleaning theitem is complete; and the logistics engine, wherein the logistics engineis a distributed system of multiple servers further configured to:receive the first request, determine the method to clean the item,transmit the method to clean the item to the third user device, receivethe cleaning complete message, and trigger a message to display thecleaning is complete on the first user device.
 23. The system forrouting and tracking luggage as recited in claim 22, wherein: a fourthfunction in the third set of operations includes a second request to thelogistics engine to send a code to unlock the luggage, a fifth functionin the third set of operations includes receiving the code to unlock theluggage, and a sixth function in the third set of operations includesinitiating unlocking the luggage; and the logistics engine, wherein thelogistics engine is a distributed system of multiple servers furtherconfigured to: receive the second request, determine the code to unlockthe luggage, and transmit the code to the third user device.
 24. Thesystem for routing and tracking luggage as recited in claim 21, whereinthe luggage further comprises: a GPS receiver in communication with thelogistics engine; and the logistics engine, wherein the logistics engineis a distributed system of multiple servers further configured to:receive the communication from the GPS receiver; and transmit thecommunication from the GPS receiver to the first user device.
 25. Thesystem for routing and tracking luggage as recited in claim 21, whereinthe luggage further comprises: an electronic display in communicationwith the logistics engine; and the logistics engine, wherein thelogistics engine is a distributed system of multiple servers furtherconfigured to transmit information to the electronic display.
 26. Thesystem for routing and tracking luggage as recited in claim 21, wherein:a first function in the third set of operations includes a secondrequest to the logistics engine for a second location to route theluggage, a second function in the third set of operations includesreceiving the second location to route the luggage, a third function inthe second set of operations includes routing the luggage to the secondlocation, a fourth function in the second set of operations includestransmitting a message to the logistics engine that the luggage is atthe second location, a fifth function in the second set of operationsincludes tracking the luggage to the second location, and a sixthfunction in the second set of operations includes transmitting thetracking the luggage to the second location information to the logisticsengine; and the logistics engine, wherein the logistics engine is adistributed system of multiple servers further configured to: receivethe second request, determine the second location, transmit the secondlocation to the third user device, trigger a message to display that theluggage is at the second location on the first user device, receive thetracking the luggage to the second location information, and trigger amessage to display the tracking the luggage to the second locationinformation on the first user device.
 27. The system for using multipledevices for tracking and processing items in the bag at differentlocations as recited in claim 26, further comprising: a fourth userdevice running a fourth instance of the application to initiate a fourthset of operations, wherein: a first function in the fourth set ofoperations includes sending a first request to the logistics engine fora method to clean an item in the plurality of items, a second functionin the fourth set of operations includes cleaning the item according tothe selected method, and a third function in the fourth set ofoperations includes triggering the logistics engine that cleaning theitem is complete; and the logistics engine, wherein the logistics engineis a distributed system of multiple servers further configured to:receive the first request, determine the method to clean the item,transmit the method to clean the item to the fourth user device, receivethe cleaning complete message, and trigger a message to display thecleaning is complete on the first user device.
 28. A method for routingand tracking luggage, the method comprising: providing a first instanceof an application to run on a first user device to initiate a first setof operations, wherein: a first function in the first set of operationsis selecting the plurality of items to populate the luggage, a secondfunction in the first set of operations is selecting a first location toroute the luggage, a third function in the first set of operations istriggering a logistics engine to populate the luggage, and a fourthfunction in the first set of operations is triggering the logisticsengine to route the luggage to the first location; providing a secondinstance of the application top run on a second user device to initiatea second set of operations, wherein: a first function in the second setof operations includes routing the luggage to the first location, asecond function in the second set of operations includes transmitting amessage to the logistics engine that the luggage is at the firstlocation, a third function in the second set of operations includestracking the luggage to the first location, and a fourth function in thesecond set of operations includes transmitting the tracking informationto the logistics engine; providing a third instance of the applicationto run on a third user device to initiate a third set of operations,wherein the third device is different from the first device and thesecond device; receiving the trigger to populate the luggage; initiatingthe process to populate the luggage; receiving the trigger to route theluggage to the first location; initiating the process to route theluggage to the first location; receiving the message that the luggage isat the first location; triggering a message to display that the luggageis at the first location on the first user device. receiving thetracking information; and triggering a message to display the trackinginformation on the first user device.
 29. The method for routing andtracking luggage as recited in claim 28, wherein: a first function inthe third set of operations includes sending a first request to thelogistics engine for a method to clean an item in the plurality ofitems, a second function in the third set of operations includescleaning the item according to the selected method, and a third functionin the third set of operations includes triggering the logistics enginethat cleaning the item is complete; receiving the first request;determining the method to clean the item; transmitting the method toclean the item to the third user device; receiving the cleaning completemessage; and triggering a message to display the cleaning is complete onthe first user device.
 30. The method for routing and tracking luggageas recited in claim 29, wherein: a fourth function in the third set ofoperations includes a second request to the logistics engine to send acode to unlock the luggage, a fifth function in the third set ofoperations includes receiving the code to unlock the luggage, and asixth function in the third set of operations includes initiatingunlocking the luggage; and receiving the second request; determining thecode to unlock the luggage; and transmitting the code to the third userdevice.
 31. The method for routing and tracking luggage as recited inclaim 28, further comprising: receiving a communication from the GPSreceiver attached to the luggage; and transmitting the communicationfrom the GPS receiver to the first user device.
 32. The system forrouting and tracking luggage as recited in claim 21, further comprisingtransmitting information to an electronic display attached to theluggage.
 33. The method for routing and tracking luggage as recited inclaim 28, wherein: a first function in the third set of operationsincludes a second request to the logistics engine for a second locationto route the luggage, a second function in the third set of operationsincludes receiving the second location to route the luggage, a thirdfunction in the second set of operations includes routing the luggage tothe second location, a fourth function in the second set of operationsincludes transmitting a message to the logistics engine that the luggageis at the second location, a fifth function in the second set ofoperations includes tracking the luggage to the second location, and asixth function in the second set of operations includes transmitting thetracking the luggage to the second location information to the logisticsengine; receiving the second request; determining the second location;transmitting the second location to the third user device triggering amessage to display that the luggage is at the second location on thefirst user device. receiving the tracking the luggage to the secondlocation information; and triggering a message to display the trackingthe luggage to the second location information on the first user device34. The method for using multiple devices for tracking and processingitems in the bag at different locations as recited in claim 33, furthercomprising: providing a fourth instance of the application to run on afourth user device to initiate a fourth set of operations, wherein: afirst function in the fourth set of operations includes sending a firstrequest to the logistics engine for a method to clean an item in theplurality of items, a second function in the fourth set of operationsincludes cleaning the item according to the selected method, and a thirdfunction in the fourth set of operations includes triggering thelogistics engine that cleaning the item is complete; determining themethod to clean the item; transmitting the method to clean the item tothe fourth user device; receiving the cleaning complete message; andtriggering a message to display the cleaning is complete on the firstuser device.
 35. A method for routing and tracking luggage, the methodcomprising: providing a first instance of an application to run on acustomer device to initiate a first set of operations, wherein: a firstfunction in the first set of operations is selecting the plurality ofitems to populate the luggage, a second function in the first set ofoperations is selecting a first location to route the luggage, a thirdfunction in the first set of operations is triggering a logistics engineto populate the luggage, and a fourth function in the first set ofoperations is triggering the logistics engine to route the luggage tothe first location; providing a second instance of the application toprun on a first provider device to initiate a second set of operations,wherein: a first function in the second set of operations includesrouting the luggage to the first location, a second function in thesecond set of operations includes transmitting a message to thelogistics engine that the luggage is at the first location, a thirdfunction in the second set of operations includes tracking the luggageto the first location, and a fourth function in the second set ofoperations includes transmitting the tracking information to thelogistics engine; providing a third instance of the application to runon a second provider device to initiate a third set of operations,wherein the second provider is different from the first provider;receiving the trigger to populate the luggage; initiating the process topopulate the luggage; receiving the trigger to route the luggage to thefirst location; initiating the process to route the luggage to the firstlocation; receiving the message that the luggage is at the firstlocation; triggering a message to display that the luggage is at thefirst location on the customer device. receiving the trackinginformation; and triggering a message to display the trackinginformation on the customer device.
 36. The method for routing andtracking luggage as recited in claim 35, wherein: a first function inthe third set of operations includes sending a first request to thelogistics engine for a method to clean an item in the plurality ofitems, a second function in the third set of operations includescleaning the item according to the selected method, and a third functionin the third set of operations includes triggering the logistics enginethat cleaning the item is complete; receiving the first request;determining the method to clean the item; transmitting the method toclean the item to the second provider device; receiving the cleaningcomplete message; and triggering a message to display the cleaning iscomplete on the first user device.
 37. The method for routing andtracking luggage as recited in claim 35, wherein: a fourth function inthe third set of operations includes a second request to the logisticsengine to send a code to unlock the luggage, a fifth function in thethird set of operations includes receiving the code to unlock theluggage, and a sixth function in the third set of operations includesinitiating unlocking the luggage; and receiving the second request;determining the code to unlock the luggage; and transmitting the code tothe second provider device.
 38. The system for routing and trackingluggage as recited in claim 35, further comprising transmittinginformation to an electronic display attached to the luggage.
 39. Themethod for routing and tracking luggage as recited in claim 35, wherein:a first function in the third set of operations includes a secondrequest to the logistics engine for a second location to route theluggage, a second function in the third set of operations includesreceiving the second location to route the luggage, a third function inthe second set of operations includes routing the luggage to the secondlocation, a fourth function in the second set of operations includestransmitting a message to the logistics engine that the luggage is atthe second location, a fifth function in the second set of operationsincludes tracking the luggage to the second location, and a sixthfunction in the second set of operations includes transmitting thetracking the luggage to the second location information to the logisticsengine; receiving the second request; determining the second location;transmitting the second location to the second provider devicetriggering a message to display that the luggage is at the secondlocation on the customer device. receiving the tracking the luggage tothe second location information; and triggering a message to display thetracking the luggage to the second location information on the customerdevice
 40. The method for using multiple devices for tracking andprocessing items in the bag at different locations as recited in claim39, further comprising: providing a fourth instance of the applicationto run on a third provider device to initiate a fourth set ofoperations, wherein: a first function in the fourth set of operationsincludes sending a first request to the logistics engine for a method toclean an item in the plurality of items, a second function in the fourthset of operations includes cleaning the item according to the selectedmethod, and a third function in the fourth set of operations includestriggering the logistics engine that cleaning the item is complete;determining the method to clean the item; transmitting the method toclean the item to the third provider device; receiving the cleaningcomplete message; and triggering a message to display the cleaning iscomplete on the customer device.